Barford pub holds talent contest
A licensee has been running their own Britain's Got Talent contest to help drive trade.
Val Kearsey, owner of freehold the Granville in Barford, Warwickshire, hosted a two-part Barford's Got Talent contest.
Kearsey said: "We raised more than £2k for charity and attracted about 100 people, including several new customers, on two normally quiet Sunday nights. Drink sales increased by 50%."
The event attracted acts from Barford and other local villages, including a jazz keyboardist; six piece band and a Lady Gaga tribute act.
Three finalists performed in front of four judges who took on the roles of Amanda Holden, Simon Cowell, Piers Morgan and Amanda Holden's mum.
After each performance the judges gave their comments, but the public had the
final vote.
The winner received a bottle of Champagne and a complimentary meal at the Granville.
All finalists have been invited back to perform at the pub later this year.
The event was marketed through the pub' website, Facebook page, local PR and advertising, flyers and an A-board outside the pub.
Kearsey added: "It's something different to do on a normally quiet night. It's also relevant and talked about as the ITV talent show is running at the same time. We'll certainly run a similar event next year."
